A local charity promoting mental and physical well-being, has partnered with Chester FC Community Trust to start its own community wellbeing walks in Blacon.

Founded in 2022 by Dawn and Ian Swettenham, the Swettenham Foundation is dedicated to enhancing the health and wellbeing of communities.

While the foundation's efforts extend to areas where Swettenham Chemists operate, the current focus is on the communities of Blacon and Newton.

Led by newly trained walk leaders Charlotte Houghton and Anna Price, The Blacon wellbeing walks take place every Thursday at 10 AM.

Starting from King George V Community Centre in Blacon, the route follows the scenic canal and through the Countess of Chester Country Park, lasting 45 minutes to an hour at a relaxed pace.

The foundation's current focus is on the communities of Blacon and Newton (Image via: The Swettenham Foundation)

Afterwards, participants can enjoy refreshments and a friendly chat

One of the key initiatives of the foundation is its work with community gardening groups and schools.

By encouraging hands-on learning about gardening and the impact of green spaces, the foundation tries to inspire people to support their own well-being through the practise.

The charity is also working with a few local schools to support their gardening clubs to create the next generation gardeners.

They've also recently proudly donated towards the Dee Point Primary School 'Stars Shelter' project and have expressed excitement to see the project brought to life.

With a long-standing history in the local pharmacy business, the Swettenhams have built strong ties with the communities of Chester, East Wirral, and Llandudno.

One of the key initiatives of the foundation is its work with community gardening groups and schools (Image via: The Swettenham Foundation)

The foundation seeks to give back to these areas, promoting healthier and more connected lives.

A spokesperson said: "Day to day we see the management of health conditions through the prescribing of drugs.

"Many mental and physical illnesses can also be improved by changes to lifestyle and we are forming links with local GP surgeries and social prescribers to promote this aim.

"We are facilitating and encouraging access to nature, nutritious food, outdoor activities and connecting with others, all of which have a significant and positive effect on health".

If you're interested in hearing more about the charity, or if you have a project you would like The Swettenham Foundation to support, you can find its website here.

You can also get in touch via its social media pages.